Headstart ABI Services

31/03/2026

March 2026 NewsLink is here! 🎉

Take a look at what’s been happening at Headstart ABI Services — with stories, updates and insights to keep you in the loop. This edition features inspiring fundraising efforts, returning to work after ABI, our fantastic collaboration with Men’s Shed, and plenty more.

Have a read and see what’s been happening 👇

In this exciting edition: • Fundraising for worthy causes P 6, 8, 18 • Community Education Team news, Pg 4 • Working after brain injury, Pg 17 • Working hard… and working out – Jaisse’s story, Pg 10

30/03/2026

After being given just 6–8 weeks to live following a brain tumour diagnosis, Ariane defied the odds in the most incredible way. Now, her daughter Katelyn’s best friend Lilly is leading the charge as captain of ‘Team Ari’, raising funds and awareness for brain cancer. 🧠

“I feel very loved and appreciative. The team seems to be getting bigger each year!” Ari shares.🩷

Take a moment to check out the story of Team Ari — it’s one that will truly inspire ✨

27/03/2026

Here's something for a "Feel Good Friday!" 💛

Ariane (pictured with her daughter Katelyn) recently visited beautiful Noosa, where she enjoyed a swim using a special beach wheelchair 🌊♿️ What an incredible experience!

The trip was also a chance to cheer on the amazing “Team Ari” in action — raising over $100,000 for the Cure Brain Cancer Foundation 👏

You can catch their inspiring story in our March NewsLink, out now!

26/03/2026

🎣 Our Recreation Activity yesterday was a beauty — a relaxing day fishing off Valentine Jetty!

They say if it were easy, it’d be called 'catching'… not 'fishing' 😄 But with sunshine, great company, and such a stunning spot, it was a fantastic day all around ☀️🌊

Sometimes it’s not about what you catch, but the moments you share 💙

25/03/2026

“I’m now doing 220kg leg press and 110kg chest, which I’m proud of,” says Jaisse. 💪

The gym is now a huge part of Jaisse’s life — a powerful milestone after a devastating motorcycle crash that saw him relearn basic skills and rebuild his life.

Amazing work, Jaisse — keep it up! 🙌

Stay tuned to read more of his inspiring story in our upcoming NewsLink. ✨

20/03/2026

🎉🎶 Double the birthdays, double the fun! 🎶🎉 We celebrated in style with a day of lawn bowls and Morning Melodies — yeehaa Leah and hip hip hooray for Fred! 🥳🎂
Such a joy to share these special moments together. Thanks for a fantastic day full of laughs, music and great company! 💛 Thanks talso to and Cardiff RSL Club

19/03/2026

On Wednesday, our Rec crew enjoyed a beautiful day out at Mount Sugarloaf! ☀️🌿🚶‍♂️ With a wheelchair-accessible track ♿️ and stunning views waiting at the top, it was the perfect mix of fresh air, movement, and connection 💚✨ What an awesome day!
Big thanks to Graham and CSW Eddie for coming up with this fantastic idea during our Rec planning day 🙌

17/03/2026

Our partnership with the Newcastle Mens Shed Inc continues to bring plenty of creativity and smiles. 🔨🐰

With Easter just around the corner, the Men’s Shed legends brought along a range of Easter-themed items (and a few other pieces) ready assembly and decorating. Everyone picked their project and got stuck in, showing great focus and creativity along the way.

The results were fantastic and it was great to see everyone so engaged. A big thanks to the Men’s Shed crew for making it happen! 👏🎨

16/03/2026

It’s Neurodiversity Celebration Week (16–20 March) and we’re celebrating the remarkable story of William 'Bil' Anderson Jr.

After waking from a coma following a brain injury, Bil developed an extraordinary artistic ability — a rare condition known as “accidental savant syndrome.” His work has since evolved into the Quantum Superflat Art Movement, showcasing his unique perspective and creativity.

Headstart is proud to support Bil to access the community and assist with research and submissions for future exhibition opportunities. As he continues to overcome challenges, including Asperger’s, Bil hopes to be better understood — both as a person and as an artist. 🎨 ✍️🩷

13/03/2026

A big shout out to the always-beaming Kim from our Community Education Team! 😄👏

Kim has been out and about recently delivering presentations, including at WHOS Rehab, supporting people on their journey of recovery from alcohol and other drug dependence.

We’re so proud of the work Kim — and all of our team — do to connect with and support our community every day. Thank you for your dedication and heart! 💙🙌

12/03/2026

Sun, surf, and plenty of laughs! ☀️🏄‍♂️

Our Rec group had a fantastic day at Merewether Ocean Baths, soaking up the sun and enjoying the thrill of Newcastle Surfest action.

With over 800 surfers from around the globe competing across nine epic events, the energy was amazing 🌊✨. Great company, sunshine, and unforgettable moments made it a day to remember! 💛

11/03/2026

G’day from Daniel! 👋 Two Newcastle icons: Nobbys and Dan! 😎 ☀️ Nothing beats a bit of sunshine, sea breeze and stunning views, and Daniel was more than happy to top up his Vitamin D while soaking in the scenery. Beach days done right! 🌊